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Beckett feels great after bullpen work

Beckett feels great after bullpen work

ARLINGTON -- Unbeaten right-hander Josh Beckett (7-0) threw 70 pitches in the bullpen Saturday and declared himself fit to be activated for his scheduled start Tuesday against Cleveland.

"I felt good," Beckett said, "and I didn't give up any hits."

Beckett has been on the disabled list retroactive to May 14 because of an avulsion [torn flap of skin] on the middle finger of his pitching hand. He kept the finger protected with a bandage during Saturday's workout.

"There was no reason to take it off today and risk messing it up, even a little," Beckett said. "But this was pretty much the last hurdle. I'm definitely ready to get back out there. I've had too much down time. We've wanted to be smart with this thing, but it's made it a lot easier with us winning."

Beckett, who has posted a 2.66 ERA, has earned a decision in every start except one. He has 47 strikeouts and just 12 walks in 50 2/3 innings this season.

Ken Daley is a contributor to MLB.com. This story was not subject to the approval of Major League Baseball or its clubs.